The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Aviation Radioman First Class Richard Thomas Woodson, United States Navy, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action against the enemy while serving as a Radioman and Free Gunner of a carrier-based Navy Scouting Plane in Scouting Squadron NINE (VS-9), attached to the U.S.S. HORNET (CV-8), during the engagement with enemy Japanese naval and air forces near the Santa Cruz Islands on 26 October 1942. Aviation Radioman First Class Woodson assisted in fighting off a prolonged attack on his plane by numerous enemy fighters and continued to man his gun throughout the engagement, although he was weak from loss of blood as a result of a serious wound. His loyal devotion to duty during a critical situation contributed in a large measure to the destruction of a large number of Japanese fighters shot down by his group. Aviation Radioman First Class Woodson’s gallant actions and selfless devotion to duty, without regard for his own safety, were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.